The Brazilian Population Tumor Atlas Project: addressing representation in cancer genomics in Brazil

The underrepresentation of Brazil and other Latin American nations in global genomic research is a consequence of multifaceted challenges. Persistent underfunding and infrastructure limitations have hampered the development and implementation of large-scale genomic studies in medicine. This imbalance creates a significant barrier to realizing the potential of precision medicine for the Brazilian population. The disparity in genomic data is particularly concerning in Brazil, given its genetically diverse population with unique ethnic characteristics. This critical need for representative data is precisely why the Brazilian Population Tumor Atlas (<i>Atlas Tumoral da População Brasileira</i>, ATPBR) was conceived. Funded by public health initiatives, ATPBR aims to comprehensively map the molecular signatures of cancer and promote responsible data sharing, supporting a future of more equitable care. Its primary objective is to establish a secure platform for the storage and dissemination of multi-omics tumor data. ATPBR has the potential to strengthen Brazil's role in advancing cancer genomics and contributing to local and global cancer control.